Does Character Count: Part Two

ROMANS 5: 1 – 4

Aristotle, the godfather of Greek philosophy, asserted human behavior can be shaped, that certain behaviors are helpful for individuals and society.. The Greeks identified four cardinal virtues:

PRUDENCE, JUSTICE, COURAGE, and TEMPERANCE.

Though there are many attributes of those who can come into God’s presence, let’s concentrate on these four. Consider developing these four character traits. Look for them in others and model them.

We live by stories. Your life is a story being lived out. Your autobiography would be your story.

I. PRUDENCE

Prudence is practical wisdom that leads to good choices and results in successful living.  Certain self-imposed tests of a decision are practical.

A. Acceptability: Will this please my Lord?

B. Benefit: If this is known, will it cause my friends

embarrassment?

C. Consequences: Am I prepared to live with the outcome?

II. JUSTICE

Justice centers on acts of fairness, honesty, and the rules of law.

Psalm 15: 2 gives three descriptive terms for such a person: 

“He walks uprightly…” This is one translation of the Hebrew word for “integrity.” (vs. 2a). He leads an uncorrupted life.

“And works righteousness…” (Vs. 2b). He does what is right.

“He speaks truth from his heart…” (Vs. 2c).

This type of person tells the truth plain and simple. He doesn’t have a personal glossary of terms as defined by himself.  He doesn’t play word games. He avoids semantical sand traps.

An old Hebrew translation of this is: “One who doesn’t trip over his own tongue.”

The person who pleases God is defined: “He swears to his own hurt and does not change.”  What he says he will do even if it is challenging or costly to do.

III. COURAGE 

Psalm 15 closes with assurance: “He who does these things shall never be moved.” Certain character gives stability and consistency.

A sense of justice is of no use if we don’t have the courage of our convictions..

IV. TEMPERANCE

Temperance, the fourth Greek virtue, means self-control. 

In the New Testament one of the fruits of the Spirit is self-control. 

Psalm 15 closes with assurance: “He who does these things shall never be moved.” Certain character gives stability and consistency.

5 began with a question and ends with a promise. Psalm 15 closes with assurance: “He who does these things shall never be moved.” Certain character gives stability and consistency.